Today we’d like to introduce you to Estefania Colamarco
Hi Estefania, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
My baking journey started when I was living in Ecuador. Throughout my life I always knew I wanted to be a pastry chef. When I was a kid, I would go into the backyard and start making mud pies and adding dirt and rocks as decorations. As I kept growing up, I’d take different courses, I learned how to do decorated cookies, how to do multiple “Party tables” (Basically bite sized desserts for parties, such as alfajores, cookies, brownies, cupcakes, etc), I’ve taken classes on how to make different kinds of breads and puff pastries, even learning how to make fondant from scratch. I used to sell cupcakes during high school to have some income for myself; once I finished HS I started culinary school in Ecuador and that’s where I finally got the recipe for my Alfajores. Ever since I got that recipe back in 2016 I haven’t stopped making Alfajores. I moved to the USA in 2021 and officially moved to Austin in 2022 where I started classes in Auguste Escoffier for a Pastry degree, this is where I started learning even more about pastry and baking and just loved every minute of it. In 2023 an idea struck, what if I sell my alfajores? I sold a few alfajores throughout the year to my classmates and friends but in 2024 is when I decided to start my cottage bakery. In 2024 I was focused mostly in my Alfajores but currently I’m doing cakes as well. I can make lunchbox cakes as well as 6″, 8″ or 10″ cakes and custom Alfajor cakes too.
It has been a learning curve but I’m enjoying this process as much as I can.
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
One of the struggles I’ve had leading up to this point was finishing school. When attending Auguste Escoffier I juggled multiple part time jobs and classes. Additionally, I did a lot of volunteer events throughout the semester so there was less time to relax more often than not. However, all of the hard work would eventually pay off. I developed long lasting friendships with my colleague and teachers. Grew my network within the food industry. Lastly, I was given the honor of being the pastry speaker at graduation. As one begins their career, it is important to show up whenever possible. That is the only way to build genuine connections.
Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your business?
My cottage bakery is called Cumandá in honor of my Late grandmother Cumandá. Even though my grandmother didn’t really bake with me, she would always be the first one to tell me the taste on the cookies/cupcakes so she would always encourage me and give me positive feedback. She was also the one who got me into the culinary school I attended briefly in Ecuador.
In my bakery, I specialize in Alfajores and custom cakes. What sets us apart from others is that we use traditional recipes from Ecuador for our baked goods and our homemade Dulce de Leche.
What quality or characteristic do you feel is most important to your success?
One of the most important qualities to be successful is high-quality customer service and treating people with kindness. This can begin from the moment we get a message, interacting with the customer, or at the time of delivery. Whenever I’m making an order I always try to keep them updated throughout the process so that they know exactly what to expect and the progress. I feel that having strong communication and a positive demeanor makes the whole process more memorable for everyone. Many of my customers buy the cakes/cookies as gifts or for a special occasion. Just by going the extra mile and providing good customer service, you can almost always see the excitement throughout the process. That is one of the reasons why I enjoy baking so much, I get the opportunity to create occasions more special and exciting for everyone involved.
Pricing:
- Dozen Alfajores $25
- Custom 7″ Alfajor cake $100
- Bento Cakes (4″) $25
- 6″ custom cakes $45
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/cumanda_atx/
- Other: Email: cumandainfo@gmail.com
Image Credits
All pictures taken by me.
